10 Things CIOs Must Do to Prepare for Windows 8

Windows 8 is launching on October 26, and for CIOs, its debut will offer and opportunity to refresh the technology they offer their employees in the workplace. But can their budgets handle the upgrade costs, which could include both the software and some new hardware? Do they want to spend the cash? Chances are, any upgrade won’t happen immediately, since CIOs like to see an operating system with their own eyes and wait for the kinks to get worked out. But with time, many may be ready to take the leap. Realizing that, we thought it might be a good idea to discuss the many things CIOs must do to prepare for Windows 8. From prepping their current systems to ensuring that the operating system goes through ample testing before deployment, the following tips should go a long way in ensuring that your company is ready -- whenever Windows 8 is finally brought to your office.

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2. Backup, Backup, BackupThis one might seem obvious, but be sure to backup all corporate computers before adding Windows 8. There’s nothing worse than updating an operating system, only to find that it corrupts the machine.

Don Reisinger is a freelance technology columnist. He started writing about technology for Ziff-Davis' Gearlog.com. Since then, he has written extremely popular columns for CNET.com, Computerworld, InformationWeek, and others. He has appeared numerous times on national television to share his expertise with viewers. You can follow his every move at http://twitter.com/donreisinger.